Work Permits for Immigrants

This article explains when and how a person may apply for authorization to work in the United States.

Some immigrants may apply for authorization to legally work in the United States. But only people with certain immigration statuses are eligible to apply for work permits. This article discusses which immigrant statuses make someone eligible to apply for a work permit, how an immigrant may apply for a work permit, and how to get a social security number, Texas driver’s license, or Texas identification card.

Composed by Tahirih Justice Center • Last Legal Review on May 17, 2023 • Last Edited on September 22, 2026

What is a work permit?

A work permit is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that lets immigrants work legally in the United States for a certain period. It is also called an “employment authorization document” or “EAD.” It is a card that looks like a driver’s license or another form of photo identification (ID).

How can I apply for a work permit?

Unfortunately, most immigrants cannot just apply for a work permit. Only individuals with specific types of immigration status are eligible to apply for a work permit.

What types of immigration status allow someone to apply for a work permit?

Note: This list is not exhaustive; it only includes the most common types of immigration status that allow someone to apply for a work permit.

• A pending application for lawful permanent residency (also called an application for adjustment of status or application for a green card)
• A pending application for cancellation of removal
• A pending asylum application (for individuals with a well-founded fear of returning to their home country)

Granted asylum or withholding of removal (for individuals granted asylum or withholding of removal in the United States) Refugee status (for individuals granted refugee status outside the United States)

• A final order of removal or deportation (in certain cases, for example, if the individual has an order of supervision from ICE)
• An approved VAWA Self-petition (for survivors of domestic violence by a U.S. citizen or LPR spouse, parent, or child)
• An approved T visa application (for survivors of trafficking)
• An approved U visa petition (for survivors of crimes)
• Deferred action for individuals on the U visa waitlist
• Deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA)
• Deferred action for individuals with Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)
• Deferred action for individuals who are the victim of labor violations
• Temporary protected status (TPS)
• Certain types of parole (temporary permission to enter the United States for a specific purpose)
• Certain types of student visas
• Certain types of work visas, for dependents of the primary visa holder

How can I find out if I can apply for a work eligible immigration status?

If you would like to find out if you can apply for an immigration status that would allow you to apply for a work permit, you should consult with a licensed attorney or a Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representative. The wrong help can hurt. Immigration law is complex, and it is important to get the right help. Do not hire someone who:

• Guarantees you a visa or immigration status.
• Refuses to show you their license or accreditation.
• Refuses to give you a contract for their services.
• Asks you to sign blank or incomplete forms.
• Offers other services, such as tax preparation.
• Claims to have a special relationship with immigration authorities.
• Threatens to report your immigration status.
• Does not have a physical office and can only be contacted by email or phone.

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What are the benefits of obtaining a work permit?

There are several benefits to obtaining a work permit.

Having the ability to work legally in the U.S. Earning an income or better income, which can improve the quality of your life. More job opportunities. It is easier for you to obtain a driver’s license, rent an apartment, and open a bank account. It can help you obtain permanent residency. You will be afforded certain rights and protections, such as: Protections against discrimination in the workplace. Minimum wage laws and protections.

Sources

Work Permits for Immigrants, TexasLawHelp.org, archived September 29, 2026